12 Mar 2009

"Give nine-day fortnight a chance" - Minister

10:00 am on 12 March 2009

Social Development Minister Paula Bennett is calling on the public to give the nine-day working fortnight scheme a chance before passing judgement.

Under the scheme, employees who opt to work one day per week less per fortnight will receive up to $62 from the Government and an assurance they can't be made redundant.

The $20 million scheme is open only to stuggling companies with more than 100 employees and only for six months.

Ms Bennett told Morning Report says the scheme will save jobs and it's only a matter of time before people see how positive it will be.

It applies from 27 March until December next year and will continue until the end of 2010.

The nine day fortnight originated at a job summit on 27 February.